Merle F. Smith's Obituary
Merle F. “Mutt” Smith, 86, of Cleveland, OH (formerly of Seneca, PA) passed away peacefully on May 26 at his home in Strongsville, OH. Born July 27, 1926 in Cadogan, PA, he was the son of Merle F. Sr. and Cozie (Ambrose) Smith. On April 26, 1947, Merle married Barbara R. Anchors, who preceded him in death in 2011 after 64 years of marriage. He enlisted in the Army at age 17 and served in Germany and Austria during WWII, as well as in the Korean Conflict. He received an Honorable Discharge in 1951, having achieved the rank of Infantry Sergeant 1st Class and was awarded numerous commendations including the Bronze Star. As a civilian, he trained as a welder and worked in various machine shops including Oil Well Supply and Chicago Pneumatic Tool. He retired from OMG in Franklin in 1992. Following retirement, Merle volunteered for the Venango County Prison Ministry and as a tutor for the Franklin Literacy Counsel. Merle was a member of the Cranberry UM Church for many years, where he served in a variety of ministries. After living in Seneca for 44 years, the Smiths moved to Cleveland, OH in 2001. They remained very close and involved in the lives of their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife, Merle was preceded in death by his son Thomas in 2008 and his great-granddaughter Megan Littlejohn in 2012. He is survived by his daughter, Judith (Ron) Proper of North Ridgeville, OH; his daughter, Margery “Mike” (Bob) Blauser of Fredonia, PA; 9 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Merle’s remains were cremated in accordance with his wishes. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on Sunday, June 9, from 2-4pm, at the home of his daughter Margery Blauser, 353 Bend Hill Road, Fredonia. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to The Megan Littlejohn Foundation at 20775 Sandlewood Lane, Strongsville OH 44149.
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